And McKay believes it would be well deserved given the striker’s frustration at spending so long on the sidelines.

He said: “It was a great finish from the wee man, it was a big one for us as well as we were desperate for the victory. It has been hard for Nicky. He has done well when he has played and has been scoring but it has been difficult with Kenny Miller and Waggy ahead of him,

“But he has taken his chance with both hands by getting us through. Nicky has staked a claim for a regular start.

“It’s a blow for Waggy to be injured but it’s a chance for Nicky to keep himself in there.”